AFL 2020: Richmond to consider members-only games in 2021

Having footy back in Victoria in 2021 is the dream, but a bold plan to limit who can attend games live could see thousands of fans locked out of matches.

Kane Lambert salutes the crowd. . The 2017 AFL Grand Final between the Adelaide Crows and Richmond Tigers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground MCG. Fans stream into MCG. Picture: Jason Edwards

Premier Richmond has flagged member-only match days in 2021 as the spectre of reduced capacity crowds looms for next AFL season.

In a letter to its membership base, the Tigers said the likelihood of reduced crowds next year due to ongoing coronavirus restrictions meant attendance at home games could be limited to members only.

The paid-up Tigers faithful were told they would likely need to enter a ballot to secure their seats for each match day in a move that will make it harder for more casual fans to attend games.

After claiming back-to-back premierships, Richmond told its members its priority was getting fans back to games safely.

Tigers fans celebrate at the MCG. Picture: Jason Edwards

“There is still a great amount of uncertainty on what season 2021 may look like however our number one priority is to get you to the footy. And, importantly, to do so safely,” the club said in a letter to members.

“This means there could be reduced crowd capacity at games, particularly at the MCG.

“Given the size of our membership base, this will likely result in member-only match days for some Richmond home games.

“All members will likely need to enter a ballot for each match day, specific to your current membership product. This process will allow us to ensure you sit in your normal reserved seating area as often as possible.

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“We would like to stress to you that if you do hold a reserved seat, your seat will still remain in your name and you’ll be able to access it as soon as it is safe to do so. At this stage, the exact timings of this is unknown.

“We will ensure all members have priority access to attend Richmond home games before any club tickets are released to the general public.”

The Tigers’ plan comes after the Victorian Government announced the prospect of a crowd of 25,000 to attend each day of the Boxing Day Test in late December.

Despite the impact of COVID-19 on the 2020 season, Richmond’s membership tally stood at 100,196 this year.